How Bipolar Radio Frequency Works

Radio frequency is a skin tightening procedure used for sagging skin in those seeking a more youthful appearance.

Radio frequency devices use levels of low-frequency electromagnetic waves to generate heat. This heat is delivered into the deep layers of the skin. It stimulates new cell production and regeneration of the tissue. This treatment stimulates the production of collagen and elastin fibers, which provide structure and elasticity to the skin. Collagen is the most common protein in the body and creates the framework for skin. Elastin is a protein responsible for the elastic nature of the skin. As a result of this treatment, sagging skin is replaced, and the end result is a youthful appearance and texture.

The Science Behind Radio Frequency Skin Tightening

Radio frequency works by heating the deep layers of your skin between 122 and 167 degrees F. (50-75 degrees C). Studies have found that maintaining a temperature over 115 degrees for over 3 minutes causes the body to release heat shock proteins. These proteins stimulate the body to create new collagen fibers.

Radio waves, Wi-Fi, and microwaves are all forms of radio waves. The form of radiation used in radio frequency for skin tightening releases about 1 billion times less energy than X-rays. The form of radiation used in radio frequency is similar to the type of radiation emitted from common household items such as cell phones, TVs, microwave ovens, and household Wi-Fi routers.

Radio frequency is a form of radiation. The radiation is in the form of electromagnetic waves. Radiation can be either high energy, such as gamma rays, or low energy, such as radio frequency.

Benefits of Bipolar Radio Frequency Treatment

More than 188,000 Americans received some type of skin tightening procedure in 2020. This type of non-surgical facelift is approved for both sexes and Fitzpatrick Skin tones. However, people with darker skin are at a higher risk of side effects. As with all aesthetic procedures, the younger the patient, the better the results.

With radio frequency, there is very little risk of skin hyperpigmentation post-procedure.

Primary benefits include:

  • Improvement of skin texture and firmness.
  • Minimizing the appearance of sun damage.
  • Providing a more youthful appearance.
  • Reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and saggy skin.

Common Treatment Areas and Applications

Radiofrequency can also be used for body contouring, stretch marks, and other areas where rejuvenation is desired, including the neck and hands, which are common areas of treatment other than the face.

Effectiveness of Radio Frequency for Skin Rejuvenation

  • Fighting sun damage: Studies have shown 3 months of radio frequency treatments led to clinically significant improvements in those with sun damage such as solar keratosis.
  • Body contouring: Studies have shown 24 of 25 patients who underwent 5 to 8 sessions of radio frequency therapy saw marked improvement in body shape.
  • Face contouring: Researchers found significant improvement in facial laxity in all participants of a study, with 73 percent showing improvements in facial contour.
  • Wrinkles and fine lines: A study looked at the effect of radio frequency around the hard-to-treat area of wrinkles around the eyes of 70 women. After three treatments, there was a significant reduction in this area.
  • Face slimming: A study demonstrated that in women with fat in the lower jowl area, more than 90% of women treated had a reduction in fat, with most satisfied with the result.

Expected Results and Longevity of Treatment

A common question asked is, “When will I see results, and how long do the results last?”

The body takes time to replenish the cells treated. The common changes to skin tone and overall appearance are typically noticed at 2-3 months after treatment. In the older population, two or more treatments may be needed due to the severe damage that time has done to the tissues.

Although the skin is ever-aging, the results of treatment can last one to three years with proper skin treatment and care.

Safety and Potential Risks of Radio Frequency Procedures

Radio frequency skin tightening and rejuvenation is a relatively safe procedure. Common side effects can include mild redness and swelling after the procedure, lasting no longer than 24-48 hours. The effects are often compared to a mild sunburn.

In severe cases, the extreme heat generated by the device can cause burns; therefore, FDA-approved devices should be used.

The World Health Organization lists radio frequency as potentially carcinogenic; however, there are no direct studies linking radio frequency and cancer in people. At present, this skin treatment does not appear to increase the risk of cancer because the frequency waves for cosmetic skin procedures are extremely low.

Conclusion

  1. Radio frequency skin tightening, and rejuvenation can give a more youthful appearance without a surgical procedure like a facelift.
  2. Heat generated from the device penetrates deep into the layers of the skin and stimulates the production of collagen and elastin fibers creating new skin cells.
  3. Side effects are typically mild redness of the treated area and edema lasting 24-48 hours.
  4. Results are delayed as the body regenerates new tissue. Results are common at the 2–3-month mark.
  5. Older patients may need more than one treatment to obtain desired results.
  6. Results last 1-3 years with a skin program.
  7. FDA approved devices generally guard against burns due to device malfunction.

Cost Considerations for Radio Frequency Treatment

The price of radio frequency can vary depending on the body part treated and the location nationally. The common price is generally between $1,000 and $4,000.

Integrative Practice Solutions’ Radiance Radio Frequency Microneedling System

Integrative Practice Solutions offers the Radiance Radio Frequency microneedling system. This innovative device delivers fractional energy to the skin surface and the deeper layers to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. This treats the anti-aging appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, skin laxity, and other various skin issues. This system features interchangeable tips, allowing for maximum penetration and tissue heating at a fraction of the cost of similar devices.